Do Tablets Have IR Blasters? Complete Guide and Top Models

Do Tablets Have Ir Blasters?

Tablets have become a part of daily life for millions of people. We use them for reading, watching movies, video calls, and even working on the go. But some users want more from their tablets. They want extra features that can make life simpler and smarter. One feature that gets people curious is the IR blaster. It sounds technical, but it can be a powerful tool. With an IR blaster, your tablet could control your TV, air conditioner, or even a smart fan. But do tablets actually have IR blasters today? If so, which ones? And why is this feature important or rare? Let’s explore everything you need to know about IR blasters in tablets.

What Is An Ir Blaster?

An IR blaster (infrared blaster) is a small hardware part that sends out infrared signals. These signals can copy the commands of a remote control. In other words, your device can act as a universal remote. IR blasters are common in TV remotes, air conditioning controllers, and some smart home tools.

Infrared signals are invisible to our eyes but are picked up by many electronic devices. The technology is old but reliable. When a user presses a button on the tablet (using a special app), the IR blaster sends the right code to the device, turning it on or off, changing the channel, or adjusting the volume.

Why People Want Ir Blasters In Tablets

Many people want to control devices at home without searching for different remotes. Tablets are often nearby and have big screens, which make them a great choice for a smart remote. Here’s why IR blasters are popular among some users:

• Convenience: One tablet can replace many remotes.
• Lost remotes: If you lose your TV remote, your tablet can take over.
• Smart home integration: Control older devices that don’t have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Also, for people who travel, having a universal remote on a device they already carry can be very helpful.

Credit: www.youtube.com

Brief History: Ir Blasters In Mobile Devices

IR blasters first became popular in smartphones around 2012–2015. Brands like Samsung, LG, and HTC included them in flagship phones. At the time, controlling home electronics with your phone was a fresh idea.

Some early tablets also tried this feature. For example, the Samsung Galaxy Tab series included IR blasters in certain models. But as smartphones became more powerful, tablets with IR blasters became less common.

Today, most new phones and tablets do not include IR blasters. Many brands have removed this feature, focusing instead on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and smart home apps. But the need for IR control has not disappeared.

Do Most Tablets Have Ir Blasters?

The simple answer is no, most tablets do not have IR blasters in 2024. If you walk into a store or shop online, you will find that the majority of popular tablets do not support IR blaster hardware.

Let’s look at the main brands:

• Apple iPad: No iPad has ever included an IR blaster.
• Samsung Galaxy Tab: Some older models had IR blasters, but most new ones do not.
• Amazon Fire Tablets: No IR blaster support.
• Lenovo Tablets: Very few, mostly older, Lenovo tablets had IR blasters.
• Microsoft Surface: Never included IR blasters.

This means that for most people, their tablet cannot be used as a universal remote unless they buy extra hardware.

Why Did Tablet Makers Stop Including Ir Blasters?

There are a few reasons why IR blasters have disappeared from tablets:

• Cost and Space: Tablets have limited space for hardware. Adding an IR blaster means using space and money that could go to other features.
• Changing Tech: More TVs and devices now use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for control. Smart speakers and smart home apps can control devices without IR.
• Low Demand: Most users do not ask for IR blasters. If only a small group wants it, brands remove it to keep costs low.
• App Support: Good IR remote apps need regular updates. As fewer devices support IR, app makers stop updating or remove their apps from stores.
• Battery and Design: Keeping devices thin and light is a priority. IR blasters need a small window on the side or top of the device, which can affect design.

Current Tablets With Ir Blasters (2024)

While rare, a few tablets still offer IR blaster support, mostly from Chinese brands. These are often aimed at users in Asia, where universal remotes are still popular. Here are some examples:

These tablets are not always easy to find in the US or Europe. They often focus on markets where IR remotes are still very common in homes.

How To Tell If Your Tablet Has An Ir Blaster

You might not know if your tablet includes this feature. Here’s how to check:

• Look for a small black glass dot on the edge or top of the tablet. This is usually the IR window.
• Check the official specs on the brand’s website or box.
• Search online for “[Your Tablet Model] IR blaster.”
• Try downloading an IR remote app. If your tablet does not have the hardware, the app will usually say so.

Pro tip: Not all tablets with an IR window have working IR blasters. Some may use it for other sensors.

Using An External Ir Blaster With Your Tablet

If your tablet does not have an IR blaster, you are not out of options. External IR blasters are small devices that plug into your tablet’s headphone jack or USB port. They let your tablet send infrared signals, just like a built-in IR blaster.

Types Of External Ir Blasters

• 3.5mm Jack IR Blasters: Plug into the headphone port. These are less common now, as most tablets have removed headphone jacks.
• USB IR Blasters: Connect via USB-C or micro-USB. Most new external IR blasters use USB-C.

How They Work

• Plug the device into your tablet.
• Download the maker’s app or a general IR remote app.
• Set up your devices (TV, AC, fan, etc.) Inside the app.
• The IR blaster sends the signal when you press a button in the app.

Example Of Popular Usb Ir Blasters

Non-obvious insight: Many external IR blasters support learning mode. This means you can “teach” the blaster the signal from your old remote, even if your device is not in the app’s database.

Credit: www.youtube.com

Main Uses For Ir Blasters In Tablets

If you have a tablet with an IR blaster (built-in or external), here are the most common uses:

• TV control: Change channels, adjust volume, switch sources.
• Air conditioner control: Set temperature, fan speed, mode.
• Smart home integration: Control fans, soundbars, projectors, and more.
• Presentation control: Some projectors use IR for remote commands.
• Hotel/travel use: Control unfamiliar devices when staying away from home.

Ir Blasters Vs. Other Control Technologies

Some people ask why they need an IR blaster when there are Wi-Fi or Bluetooth options. Here’s a quick comparison:

Important insight: IR is often the only way to control older appliances. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth only work with newer “smart” devices.

Ir Remote Apps For Tablets

Even if your tablet has an IR blaster, you need a remote control app to use it. There are many options, but not all are still supported or safe. Here are some popular choices:

• Mi Remote: Made by Xiaomi, supports many devices. Works best on Xiaomi tablets and phones.
• Peel Smart Remote: Was once very popular, but support has dropped.
• ZazaRemote: Popular with Chinese devices and external IR blasters.
• AnyMote: Works with many IR blasters but is no longer updated.

When picking an app, check:

• The last update date (avoid old or unsupported apps).
• Device compatibility (check reviews).
• Privacy (some apps show ads or ask for too many permissions).

Extra tip: On Android, the Play Store reviews can quickly tell you if the app works for your tablet model.

Common Problems And Solutions

Using IR blasters on tablets can be tricky. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

The App Says “no Ir Hardware Detected”

• What it means: Your tablet does not have an IR blaster.
• Solution: Use an external IR blaster.

The Remote Codes Don’t Work

• What it means: The app’s database does not have your device or the code is wrong.
• Solution: Try “learning mode” if your IR blaster supports it. Point your original remote at the IR blaster and record the button presses.

Ir Only Works Up Close

• Why: IR needs a clear line of sight. Distance is usually only 3–5 meters.
• Solution: Move closer or make sure there is nothing blocking the signal.

The App Stops Working After Updates

• Why: The app is no longer supported, or your tablet’s new OS is not compatible.
• Solution: Try a different app or check for updates from the IR blaster maker.

Security And Privacy Concerns

IR blasters themselves do not connect to the internet. They only send simple signals. However, the apps you use may collect data or show ads. Always check:

• App permissions: Only allow what is needed.
• App source: Download from official stores, not unknown websites.
• Reviews: Watch for complaints about privacy or security.

Good practice: Delete remote apps you no longer use.

Future Of Ir Blasters In Tablets

The trend is clear: IR blasters are becoming rare in new tablets. Most brands focus on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and smart home systems. But that does not mean IR will disappear soon.

Many homes still use TVs, ACs, and devices that rely on IR remotes. In countries where smart home adoption is slower, IR is still important. Some Chinese and Asian brands continue to add IR blasters to their tablets and phones.

Non-obvious insight: If you care about IR control, check the specs carefully before buying. Even within one brand, only specific models may have IR blasters.

Should You Buy A Tablet With An Ir Blaster?

For most people, the lack of an IR blaster is not a dealbreaker. But if you want to use your tablet as a universal remote, here’s what to consider:

When An Ir Blaster Makes Sense

• You have many old devices (TV, AC, DVD, fan) that use IR remotes.
• You want to reduce clutter and use one device for everything.
• You travel often and want a backup for lost remotes.

When It’s Not Needed

• Most of your devices are “smart” (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth).
• You already use smart speakers or hubs (like Google Home or Amazon Echo).
• You do not use your tablet near your TV or AC.

Tip: For most users, an external IR blaster is enough. It’s cheap, easy to use, and works with almost any tablet.

How To Choose The Right Ir Blaster For Your Tablet

If you decide to add IR blaster support with an external device, here’s how to choose the right one:

• Check the connection type: Does your tablet have USB-C, micro-USB, or a headphone jack?
• App support: Is the app easy to use? Does it support your language and your devices?
• Device database: The bigger the database, the more likely it will work with your TV, AC, etc.
• Learning mode: Look for a blaster that can learn new codes if your device is not in the app.
• Price and reviews: Most IR blasters are under $20. Check reviews for reliability.

Mistake to avoid: Buying a cheap IR blaster with no software support. It may not work with your tablet or your home devices.

Alternatives To Ir Blasters

If your devices are newer, you may not need IR at all. Here are some alternatives:

• Wi-Fi/Bluetooth remotes: Many smart TVs and set-top boxes have their own apps.
• Smart speakers/hubs: Devices like Amazon Echo, Google Nest, or Apple HomePod can control smart devices by voice.
• Universal hardware remotes: Brands like Logitech Harmony offer remote controls that support both IR and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth devices.
• Smart plugs: For basic on/off control, smart plugs can be used for lamps and fans.

Important: If you want to future-proof your home, consider upgrading devices to smart models over time.

How To Set Up Your Tablet As A Universal Remote (step-by-step)

If you have a tablet with a built-in or external IR blaster, here is a simple setup guide:

• Install a remote app (like Mi Remote, ZazaRemote, or the app for your IR blaster).
• Open the app and choose the type of device you want to control (TV, AC, fan).
• Select the brand and model from the list, or use “learning mode” to program the remote.
• Test the buttons to make sure they work. If not, try another code or brand.
• Create shortcuts for your favorite devices for quick access.
• Repeat for other devices as needed.

Extra tip: Some apps let you create scenes or macros (like “movie time”) that control multiple devices with one tap.

Real-world Scenarios: When An Ir Blaster Saves The Day

• Lost the remote during a party? Use your tablet to keep the music going.
• Traveling for work? Control the hotel TV or air conditioner with your tablet, even if the remote is missing or dirty.
• Helping family: Set up your parent’s or grandparent’s tablet as a universal remote, so they don’t have to juggle many remotes.

User Experiences: What People Say

Looking at forums and reviews, users say IR blasters are a “nice-to-have” feature, not a must-have. Those who use them love the convenience. But most people do not miss IR blasters, as they are used to smart remotes or voice assistants.

Unexpected problem: Some users find that IR blaster support in tablets is not as strong as in phones, with fewer apps and less frequent updates. It’s important to check support before buying.

Expert Opinion: Is The Ir Blaster Still Relevant?

Tech experts agree that IR blasters are useful for people with older electronics. However, the market is moving toward all-digital, wireless solutions. Tablets are getting thinner, lighter, and more focused on media and productivity. Extra hardware like IR blasters is less likely to return in the future.

Still, for users who need to control a mix of old and new devices, an external IR blaster is a simple, cost-effective option.

Where To Learn More

For a deeper look at the history and technology behind IR blasters and their use in electronics, see the article on Wikipedia.

Credit: www.wikihow.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Add An Ir Blaster To Any Tablet?

Most tablets do not have built-in IR blasters, but you can add one with an external device. These plug into the USB or headphone jack. Make sure the blaster and its app support your tablet model.

Why Is The Ir Blaster Missing From New Tablets?

Brands removed IR blasters to save space and cut costs. Most new TVs and smart devices use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for control, so the demand for IR blasters dropped.

Is An Ir Blaster Better Than Wi-fi Or Bluetooth Control?

IR blasters are best for older devices that do not support Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. For new smart devices, wireless control is usually easier and works from anywhere in the house.

What Should I Do If My Ir Remote App Does Not Work?

Check if your tablet has an IR blaster. If not, try an external IR blaster. If it still does not work, look for another app, or use “learning mode” to program your device’s codes.

Are Ir Blaster Apps Safe To Use?

Most apps from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store are safe, but always check reviews and permissions. Some free apps may show ads or collect data, so choose well-known brands for better privacy.

Tablets with IR blasters are rare, but with the right tools, you can still control your home devices from your favorite screen. Whether you need this feature depends on your devices and habits. For most, an external IR blaster is a simple and flexible solution.